4 significant earthquakes and more than 200 aftershocks were recorded in Cyprus between Wednesday afternoon (November 12) and Thursday evening (November 13), according to the Department of Geological Survey.

The Director of the Department, Christodoulos Hadjigeorgiou, reported that the first major earthquake occurred at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale.

A second earthquake of 5.2 magnitude followed later that afternoon, while two smaller tremors were recorded on Thursday — one at 6:46 a.m. (3.8 magnitude) and another at 11:27 a.m. (4.5 magnitude).

As Offsite writes, Mr. Hadjigeorgiou described the sequence as “an unusually high-frequency seismic activity”. “Within five minutes we recorded a 3.9-magnitude tremor, at ten minutes another of 4.3, and thirty minutes later a 3.8. It’s the first time we’ve seen so many smaller quakes follow a major one,” he noted.

He added that over 200 aftershocks had been recorded within a 24-hour period, stressing that the Department remains on full alert and continues to monitor seismic activity closely. “Our team is analyzing the smaller tremors and will issue updates if new developments occur,” he said.

Mr. Hadjigeorgiou explained that aftershocks could continue for up to a year following such strong earthquakes, though most are too weak to be felt. He did not rule out the possibility of a stronger quake in the coming days but urged the public to stay vigilant yet calm, avoiding panic.

The earthquake was strongly felt across the island, particularly in Paphos, Limassol, and Nicosia, and was also noticed along the eastern Mediterranean coast. After a brief lull on Wednesday night, seismic activity resumed early Thursday morning.

The Panagia Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery in Panagia suffered serious structural damage, while the Agios Neophytos Monastery in Paphos sustained cracks in several areas. In Kelokedara, Paphos, the roof of an abandoned house collapsed during the first major earthquake.

According to the Civil Defense, no other significant damage was reported to buildings or infrastructure. “No injuries have been reported,” the Civil Defense confirmed in its statement.

The District Administration of Paphos remains on alert and fully coordinated with all relevant departments, according to Acting District Officer Froso Georgiou. She said that cleanup crews had already cleared debris from the collapsed structure in Kelokedara.

While recent tremors have alarmed many—especially residents of Paphos—earthquakes are not new to Cyprus. The island lies along a highly active seismic zone and has experienced much stronger quakes throughout its history.

Five of the most powerful earthquakes on record include:

• 2022 (Paphos): 6.6 magnitude — the strongest in recent decades.

• 1966 (Paphos): 6.7 magnitude — caused landslides and property damage.

• 1953 (Paphos): 6.5 magnitude — one of the deadliest quakes, killing over 40 people and destroying villages.

• 1491 (Mesaoria): approximately 7.0 magnitude — destroyed homes and city walls in Nicosia.

• 1222 (Paphos): 7.5 magnitude — the strongest earthquake in Cyprus’ history; the Castle of Saranta Kolones collapsed, and reports say the sea receded before a tsunami struck.